New Zealand exports boom

NEW ZEALAND: The country's exports to the UK increased by 36% in the past twelve months, according to figures released today.

The New Zealand Winegrowers (NZWG) annual report said total exports hit a record NZ $700 million (247m) in the year ending 30 June 2007 - up 36%.

UK exports were also up 36% to $227m (80m); the United States by 27% to $176m (62m) and Australia by 47% to $180m (63.5m)

NZWG chair, Stuart Smith said: "The New Zealand wine industry has come of age. After growing steadily for two decades, it is now a major player in the New Zealand economy and the international wine market."

He pointed out a record crop of 205,000 tonnes in 2007 would enable it to extend its position in new and existing markets but admitted: "supply constraints in key varieties will restrict growth in the year ahead."

The report comes two weeks after NZWG revealed its new logo and strapline Pure Discovery , which has been met with a mixed response by its members.